It is four-and-a-half years minus a day since Heidar Helguson last started a game for Watford, but the Hornets’ legend is back in the team this afternoon as Malky Mackay’s men bid to right the wrongs of last weekend’s hammering at West Bromwich Albion against Preston North End at Vicarage Road.

The inclusion of the Icelandic international for his first full appearance since rejoining the club on loan from Queens Park Rangers is the only change from the 5-0 defeat; Jon Harley being the player to make way.

By contrast, Preston boss Alan Irvine has made five changes to the team that was held to a 1-1 draw at home by Crystal Palace last time out.

Shoulder-injury victim Richard Chaplow misses out completely, while Chris Brown, Darren Carter, Paul Parry and Eddie Nolan drop to the bench. Their places are taken by Michael Hart, Callum Davidson, Chris Sedgwick, Valiche Shumulikoski and Jon Parkin.

Watford: Loach; Hodson, Mariappa, Cathcart, Doyley; Cleverley, Lansbury, Eustace, Cowie; Graham, Helguson. Substitutes: Severin, Harley, Bennett, L Henderson, Ellington, Bryan, Bond.

Preston North End: Lonergan; Hart, Collins, Chilvers, Davidson; Sedgwick, Jones, Shumulikoski, Wallace; Parkin, Mellor. Substitutes: Mawene, Brown, Carter, Parry, W Henderson, Nolan, Elliott.